Pulse pressure
Medical term · P
The difference between systolic blood pressure and diastolic blood pressure (systolic pressure minus diastolic pressure = pulse pressure). Pulse pressure may help predict heart disease risk.
Related terms
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Diastolic blood pressureThe bottom number of a blood pressure reading, such as 134/78. It represents the pressure in the arteries when the heart relaxes between beats.
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Systolic blood pressureThe first or top number in a blood pressure reading; a measure of the pressure blood exerts against arterial walls when the heart contracts.
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Blood pressureThe force blood exerts against the walls of the arteries. Optimal blood pressure is less than 120/80 mm Hg.
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DiseaseAn abnormal condition in the body causing harm.